Home Care Tips for Improving Memory for Seniors

While some decline in cognitive ability is to be expected as one gets older, there are ways to delay or even prevent memory loss.

Published:Feb 25, 2014

Home Care Tips for Improving Memory for Seniors

Home care has become a top choice for seniors. Most seniors wish to remain in their own homes for as long as possible, living in a familiar place where they are most comfortable. For seniors who have begun to experience memory loss, home care can be an excellent solution to prevent disruption in their lives and provide seniors with the opportunity to remain at home, where they have a familiar place of reference.

Age-related memory loss is common and is not to be confused with cognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease or dementia, which are more severe. Though slight cognitive decline is expected as a person gets older, there are ways to be proactive and prevent or delay memory loss from happening. Read the tips below to learn about ways to improve an elderly loved-one's memory loss within a home care program.

Stay mentally active. Sadly, it is common for seniors to stop learning as they get older. Ways of challenging them to stay mentally active are to have them do puzzles, crosswords, learn a new skill or hobby, read more, brush their teeth or hair with the opposite hand or find a new way to a familiar place. Find ways to challenge the elderly loved-one in a new way. As minds can become complacent, it is good to challenge them on a regular basis.

Stay physically active. Often, seniors become sedentary as they age. Taking care of their bodies in a physical way will help keep their mind sharp as well.

Socialize on a regular basis. It is not uncommon for seniors to become depressed. Social interaction tends to decline as a person ages and loneliness sets in. Depression and stress are two big contributors to memory loss. Find ways to keep the elderly loved-one active in a social way by having them join clubs or have regular meetings with friends.

Organize the home. Clutter can cause distractions and items can become easily misplaced around the house. Part of home care can be helping the senior become more organized. Create to-do lists, calendars, have a dedicated spot for keys and items that are often lost and ensure that things are put back after use. Reducing clutter helps the elderly loved-one remain clear-headed and reduces forgetfulness.

Get enough sleep. Lacking sleep can greatly contribute to memory loss. Make sure that with home care the elderly loved-one is getting enough sleep each night.

Eat right. Eating a balanced, healthy diet will help the senior remain healthy, both physically and mentally.

Comfort Keepers®, the compassionate and professional home care service, approaches senior care differently with Interactive Caregiving(TM). Through this unique approach, caregivers establish relationships with senior clients and encourage them to participate in home care activities, which is not only enjoyable to seniors and caregivers but helps seniors remain mentally, physically and socially healthy.

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